THE owners of Southport’s Prince of Wales hotel are among serious bidders for ailing holiday camp brand Pontin’s, it has emerged.

Cheshire-based Britannia Hotels, whose 36 properties nationwide also include Liverpool’s Adelphi Hotel, is understood to be one of ten parties to formally enter an offer for the beleaguered business.

Administrator KPMG is set to enter negotiations with would-be buyers for the iconic parks operator, which collapsed in November with debts of £47m.

It said the “majority” of bidders intend to continue operating the business – currently being run as a going concern.

There had been fears that Pontin’s sites, including its Ainsdale base, had been heavily eyed up by property developers who could choose to replace the company’s five parks with homes or commercial developments.

Rob Croxen, joint administrator of Pontin's and restructuring director at KPMG, said he was confident he could sell the business on behalf of creditors.

He said: “We have received a great deal of interest in the business and should be in a position to make an announcement in the coming weeks.

“We are confident of being able to conclude a sale.”

Other potential buyers include Bhanu Choudhrie, an Indian millionaire said to have ambitious expansion plans.

Former management team Graham Parr and Southport resident Ian Smith may also have entered a bid.